Atlas

If you know the story of Atlas (his punishment by holding up the world), then you will understand the poem

Atlas

Puzzle pieces are strewn across the floor

I look at them, I know what

My duty is for

"Pick them up" he says and "Carry

them as weight."

I don't want to, but obligation taps

me on the shoulder, I do it anyway.

Anger is the first jagged edge

"This is what happens when people

don't get their way", he explains

The sticky web of lies is next

"These go hand in hand" he smiles

"to me, they are my best friends"

The blood of death drips over me

And then I know that grief is not

too far behind.

The pieces are stacked, over and over,

Until the mocking man picks up

one large piece, the top of it all

"This is persecution" he says

"See what happens when you do the right thing."

I look into the piece, and it becomes a crystal ball,

Convicting me of all the good I did,

All the intentions I had, just for one friend.

"Was it really worth it?" he asks "She's still

worshipping me, what can you do now?"

And then I realize…he has no power over me.

The pieces shatter to the floor, and I had this to say:

"I can stop you from haunting my dreams.

The fear does not work anymore.

I can stop you from plaguing my thoughts

You are nothing but air.

Go to Satan and tell him I'm done being a puppet.

Because My God will have his way.

And I won't have to carry my burdens again."

November 19,  2007

Reviews

[Beautifully Tragic xPoe..]

I'm not really familiar with the story of Atlas, therefore I don't think I understand the poem entirely. So this isnt a helpful review....

[THERISA]

Interesting idea of using the story of Altas, as the central imagery of your poem. Using the crystal ball as a reference for the the weight of the world upon your shoulders. Unlike Altas, you're able to escape from your punishment. Wondering, if another Greek myth would have been more supportive given the ending of this poem, but this is mine own personal opinion. Beyond this, you have written a strong and positive poem. Thank you for sharing this poem with us.

Therisa

[Wolfwind Words]

I like this. knowing a little of the story of atlas, i can see the origination for this. I think you have done well, and that it is a great story of shaking of the shakles of the devil, to find peace in God good graces.
Good and Evil, and i agreee with the lady below, "Satan is a Punk!"
Great Write! :)

[Brenda Sue]

Awesome. I love it. Wonderfully penned. Great job.

[Choosing Life]

I dont know the Atlas story but I could imagine what it may have been thanks to your description...

I do understand teh ending whether there way a story or not because it feels like redemption to me and liberation and those things I have experienced from God....

satan is a punk....


Awesome scribe... Awesome..